This is the first parsha of the last book of Torah – Devarim, Deuteronomy. It concerns the final days in Moses’ life. The parsha has Moses chastising the people for rash behavior throughout their journey bringing on a series of troubles. Their behavior is compared by our sages to an impetuous student on a walk with his master teacher. He sees what he quickly believes is a large pearl and leans to pick it up without consulting his guide. It turns out to be a burning ember. The next time they walk and the student spots what he thinks is another valuable pearl, he first speaks to his teacher, before acting foolishly. We all should have the blessings of good teachers and respect their advice before acting too quickly.